Chemical Laboratory Technology – Co-Op Placement

Reporting to the Quality Manager or designate, the Chemical Lab Technician – Co-Op will primarily provide support with sample testing in the Corn Receiving Area. This position will also shadow the whole Quality Department team to understand procedures/standards and document analysis while learning all lab equipment and understanding the fermentation process, while comprehending the importance of adhering to our Quality Assurance Program.

This position also works closely with the Operations team to learn, and practice varied tasks to ensure ethanol and co-products/distillers’ grain adheres to quality standards and health and safety practices.

Minimum Qualifications And Skills

• Must be a minimum of 18 years of age.
• Must be a full-time registered student in a recognized post-secondary program in a Chemical Technology Program.
• Demonstrated:
• effective communication and organizational skills,
• a keen interest in learning all operations equipment,
• a strong learning capacity and attention to detail,
• comprehension in the importance of adhering to our internal Quality Assurance Program,
• teamwork and problem-solving skills, and
• proficiency in all forms of written communications.
• Proven positive attitude.
• Excellent multi-tasking, organizational and work prioritization skills.
• Able to take instruction, work independently or with a co-worker to ensure process is followed.
• Fluent in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.

Responsibilities

• Assist our team of Chemical Process Operators in cook, distillation, and evaporation duties.
• Attend to additions, corrections, process area cleaning and other duties related to production.
• Strict adherence to SOP’s is mandatory.
• Take samples, learn to operate lab testing equipment and record results.
• Complete monthly checks of eye wash & shower stations, emergency lighting, fire extinguishers, and ladders.
• Assist with pumping water in tank farm berms, distillation, etc.
• Participate in general upkeep of process filters and screens, keeping free of debris.
• Complete testing on pond water prior to being released to environment.
• Adhere to standards and when discrepancies are identified to initiate action to the operations team (Plant Manager/Shift Supervisor or Lead Process Operator) and/or Operations Manager.
• Must fully participate in the training required to perform the position.
• Work in compliance with all Company policies, procedures, and Legislation.
• Report all workplace incidents to the Shift Supervisor or designate.
• Act as a representative of the company when communicating with customers, contractors, and vendors.
• Form decisions with a commonsense approach that supports the best interest of AEC.
• Perform other duties as delegated.

Health & Safety Aspects

The successful candidate must comply with the health and safety rules defined in AEC’S Employee Handbook. The candidate must comply with the provisions of the Occupational Health and Safety Act and use all equipment, protective devices and/or clothing required by AEC.

Use of the following clothing and personal protective equipment is required:

• 100% Cotton Clothing or FR rated Clothing
• Long Sleeve Shirt
• AEC approved safety work boot (CSA approved, steel toed, minimum 6” etc.)
• Hard hat (except in clearly defined office areas)
• Safety Glasses
• Hearing protection (where required)
• High visibility clothing (uniform/vest/coat)
• Respiratory protection (where required)
• Other PPE as required

The successful candidate must fully participate in the training required to perform in the position. The Candidate will work in an environment that uses industrial chemicals. Candidate must be aware of vehicle traffic, such as fork-lifts, pay loaders, and tractor trailers.

This position requires the candidate to be clean shaven to ensure a proper seal when wearing respiratory protection.

Mental and Physical Effort

• The position requires multi tasking while ensuring our quality product and efficient operation of the Plant.
• At times can be moderately physically demanding. Physical Requirements include walking, standing, and sitting throughout the day.
• Analysis must be documented to ensure compliance with all Quality processes so candidate must have great attention to detail and be clear in communication.
• Auditory distractions may include conversations between colleagues, phones ringing, alarms sounding, motors running, and other loud noises. Visual distractions may include movement of people, vehicles, or objects. Communication is essential so candidate will need to have effective verbal and written communication skills. Must be able to prioritize tasks/situations and recognize when to self-address or escalate to supervisor.

Working Conditions

• Office work and outdoor activities in areas with automated, noisy, and rotating machinery.
• Will work both in an office and laboratory setting and throughout the facility as required.